Science programme

Manta Ray Photo-Identification

Every manta ray has a unique pattern. By photographing and identifying individuals, we contribute to long-term monitoring of Raja Ampat's manta populations.

Introduction

Raja Ampat is recognised as an important habitat for reef manta rays (Mobula alfredi), supporting populations that contribute to the region's biodiversity, ecological value, and sustainable marine tourism. Understanding how manta rays use these habitats is essential for effective conservation and long-term management. Barefoot Conservation's Manta Ray Photo-Identification Program uses underwater photography and individual identification techniques to contribute to long-term manta ray monitoring in Raja Ampat. By documenting individual manta rays over time, the project helps improve understanding of population trends, habitat use, and movement patterns.

A manta ray gliding over the reef with survey divers behind it
A manta ray seen from below, the spot pattern on its underside clearly visible

What We Monitor

Each reef manta ray has a unique pattern of spots on the underside of its body, similar to a fingerprint, allowing individuals to be identified and tracked through time.

During research dives and opportunistic sightings, photographs are collected and analysed to identify individual manta rays. Each observation contributes information on:

Individual manta ray identities

Sightings and re-sightings

Site use and habitat preferences

Residency patterns

Population changes over time

Building long-term photo-identification datasets allows researchers to understand how manta rays use Raja Ampat's marine environments and how populations may change over time.

What you would actually do

Participants are trained in manta ray identification and data collection techniques and contribute to the project through both dedicated surveys and opportunistic observations during dives.

Activities may include:

Capturing suitable identification photographs of manta rays

Recording sighting details, including location and date

Documenting behavioural observations

Assisting with photo identification and database management

Reviewing and organising sighting records

Through participation, divers gain experience in marine wildlife monitoring, underwater photography, species identification, and scientific data collection.

Project outcomes

The Manta Ray Photo-Identification Program contributes to a growing understanding of reef manta ray populations in Raja Ampat. Long-term records of individual manta rays help researchers assess population connectivity, habitat use, and the importance of local reef areas for manta conservation.

Manta ray identification data collected through Barefoot Conservation are shared with Elasmobranch Institute Indonesia, contributing to broader efforts to document and conserve Indonesia's elasmobranch populations. EI uses photographic encounter data to support research and monitoring of sharks, rays, skates, and related species across Indonesia. Through participant involvement, this project demonstrates how conservation diving and citizen science can contribute meaningful data to marine research and species conservation.

Other programmes

Coral Ecology

Our flagship research program monitors reef health, coral bleaching, spawning events, and environmental conditions to better understand how Raja Ampat's reefs respond to a changing world.

Coral Restoration

Help grow the next generation of corals. Through nursery maintenance and scientific monitoring, we combine reef restoration with long-term research.

Reef Check

Using one of the world's most widely recognised reef monitoring programs, we collect data that contribute to national and global assessments of reef health.

Crown-of-Thorns Starfish (COTS) Monitoring & Management

Monitoring and removing coral-eating crown-of-thorns starfish helps protect vulnerable reefs and supports coral recovery across our monitoring sites.

Cyanobacteria & Water Quality

Investigating the links between water quality, cyanobacteria, and reef health helps us better understand the environmental pressures facing coral reefs.

Marine Debris

From beach clean-ups to long-term monitoring, we track marine pollution and support community-led solutions to keep Raja Ampat's coastlines healthy.

Community Engagement & Education

Conservation extends beyond the reef. Through environmental education, beach clean-ups, and community activities, we work alongside the Arborek community to support marine stewardship and environmental awareness.

Train on this programme.

No previous scientific experience is required. All training is provided by our science team.

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From £1,895
4–5 weeks

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